Vehicle Deceleration Evaluation via Speed Comparison
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current vehicles lack efficient methods to evaluate deceleration, which affects energy consumption and emissions, as existing energy consumption indicators do not provide guidance on improving driving behavior to reduce energy use.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus that measure and estimate vehicle deceleration, comparing estimated and actual speeds to generate a signal that informs drivers of sub-optimal deceleration, allowing them to improve their driving behavior and reduce energy loss.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If energy consumption indicators measure instant energy consumption, then energy consumption data is obtained, but the information does not provide guidance for drivers to improve driving behavior
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by comparing measured deceleration with estimated deceleration and providing signals to the driver about sub-optimal deceleration events. This feedback loop enables drivers to understand and correct their driving behavior, directly addressing the information gap identified in the contradiction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary evaluation system that processes raw deceleration data and translates it into meaningful feedback for drivers. This intermediary layer (comparing measured vs. estimated deceleration) bridges the gap between simple measurement and actionable guidance without requiring complex direct control systems.
2Loss of energy
If drivers brake late and excessively, then stopping is achieved, but energy consumption increases and kinetic energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables preliminary action by allowing drivers to initiate deceleration earlier based on feedback about optimal timing. By showing drivers how much earlier they should have started decelerating, the system enables them to plan and execute smoother, more energy-efficient deceleration in future driving situations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback on the timing and smoothness of deceleration by comparing actual deceleration with estimated optimal deceleration. This feedback helps drivers learn to modulate their deceleration control more effectively, reducing energy loss while maintaining ease of operation.
3Reliability
If measured deceleration is used directly for evaluation, then simple measurement is obtained, but factors affecting deceleration are not accounted for
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by using the vehicle's own measured deceleration data to generate the estimated deceleration curve through integration. This self-referential approach (using measured data to create the reference standard) improves reliability without requiring external complex models or additional sensors.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex predetermined deceleration models with a simpler mechanical integration approach. By integrating measured deceleration over time to estimate speed and compare with actual speed, the system achieves reliable evaluation through straightforward mathematical operations rather than complex predictive models.
4Measurement precision
If coasting is used to measure deceleration, then ideal deceleration reference is obtained, but driver behavior cannot be assessed during this period
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the deceleration evaluation into distinct phases: coasting phase for establishing the reference curve, and subsequent driver-controlled phase for assessing behavior. This segmentation allows each phase to serve its specific purpose while maintaining overall evaluation integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The coasting phase serves as preliminary action, establishing the ideal deceleration reference curve before the driver takes control. This preliminary measurement phase enables accurate baseline establishment that subsequent driver behavior can be compared against, preserving both measurement precision and driver behavior information.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with the present inventive concept, there is provided a method for evaluating deceleration of a vehicle. The method comprises: measuring a deceleration of the vehicle during a first time interval, estimating a speed of the vehicle at a first time instant in a second time interval, which is different from the first time interval, based on the measured deceleration, measuring a speed of the vehicle at the first time instant, comparing the estimated speed to the measured speed, and generating a signal based on the comparison. There is also provided an apparatus for evaluating deceleration of a vehicle.